Rochester, MN, has a thriving performing arts scene, with numerous theaters and performance venues located throughout the city. Rochester is surrounded by excellent productions, whether you want a traditional movie theatre or an exciting drive-in. Check out our picks for the performance venues in the city.
Drive On Down: 4 of the Best Theaters and Performance Venues Near Rochester, MN
Rochester Repertory Theatre Company
Rochester Repertory Theatre was established in 1984 to establish a professional theater company made up of professional theater artists and volunteers. The theatre’s current 7th Street location is a standalone building with an ample performance space, several administrative facilities, rehearsal space, dressing rooms, and technical and workshop spaces.
All public and performance spaces are on the same floor, making it simple to move from the sidewalk to the patron seating. The theatre, which began with a three-show pre-season that drew 10-15 people per performance, now has its own permanent home in a 100-seat theater. It’s an excellent venue for classic plays such as Every Christmas Story Ever Told.
Vali-Hi Drive-In
Vali-Hi Drive-In, located a few miles from Rochester in Lake Elmo, offers three movies for the price of one during summer and spring. Family-friendly films are shown from dusk, while risqué films are shown later in the day. A drive-in theatre is ideal for date night because it allows you to snuggle up in your spacious Mazda CX-5 while watching your favorite movie.
The tickets are reasonably priced, and children under five are admitted free, while children aged six to twelve are admitted for a dollar per film. The movie is available in stereo sound, so bring a portable radio or use your car radio to tune to the frequency. You can get some delicious popcorn from the concession stand if you get hungry. Although the drive-in does not accept credit cards, there is an ATM nearby.
The Rochester Civic Theatre Company
Rochester Civic Theatre Company, located on Civic Center Drive in Rochester, Minnesota, is a favored performance venue that hosts a variety of productions. Up to 45,000 people attend Rochester Civic Theatre Company performances each year. It’s a great place to see a variety of national and global artists. The Civic Theater has evolved into an award-winning and multi-disciplinary theater since its inception in 1951. The theatre’s education department provides classes, advanced training, and performance opportunities for actors of all ages.
Rochester Dance Company
If you enjoy ballet, make your way to Rochester Dance Company, which was founded to provide more opportunities for dance students in Rochester and the surrounding area. It allows its members to perform in professional-quality productions while participating in an intense training program. Professional guest artists across the country teach and inspire Rochester Dance Company dancers in their shows. Annual productions at the Rochester Dance Company include Coppelia, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker.
Rochester, Minnesota, has several spots to watch a movie or a Broadway show. You will need an excellent car to get around the city. Contact Rochester Mazda for fantastic deals on new and used vehicles. You are also welcome to browse through our constantly updated inventory.


